Sir, - The Pharmaceutical company Pharmacia & Upjohn of Dublin 17 has recently issued a press release headed "Be Prepared This Valentines Day", which claims that "this year doctors are urging Irish couples to consider the need for effective contraception before romance takes over."How tasteless can you get? Readers will not be surprised to know that Pharmacia & Upjohn is in the contraceptive business.I think this is highly irresponsible as the press release is trying to imply that a date for Valentine's Day should ideally end up in a sexual situation - the last line I have quoted from the release virtually equates "romance" with "sex". As for the evidence that doctors are urging couples to consider contraception, etc., the release quotes just one doctor (a "family planning" specialist) and refers to no other support from the medical profession.The most beautiful thing about sex is that it allows the love of a couple to translate into a new born life - too idealistic for many, I admit, but a far more worthwhile viewpoint than the "romance equals protected sex" notion that this company is trying to promote. It goes as far as admitting that "a planned pregnancy is wonderful" - how noble. It realises it has to allow some babies to be born, otherwise it will have no customers in the future! Of course the company will claim that it is trying to be responsible. I think "profitable" is more to the point.I hope all those who are celebrating Valentine's Day have a happy, romantic day. - Yours, etc.,Michael J. Dunne,Claremont Court,Glasnevin,Dublin 11.